Archive for the ‘Health Care’ Category

A Great Way to Start 2010 – Picture Quitting

Monday, January 4th, 2010

picture quitting

Whenever I watch one of those medical shows on TV I’m amazed at all their high-tech equipment. The scripts always end with some fantastic new discovery or technique that saves the day. But sometimes a little low-tech medicine can make all the difference.

If you’re trying to quit smoking – which, if you smoke, I pray you are – among the best ways is one that’s still gadget-free. Picture Quitting is a unique program from the MPTF, the Entertainment Industry Foundation, and the Motion Picture Industry Health Plan to help you get rid of the killer puff habit. They’ve collectively designed a program with entertainment industry pros in mind. They understand the highs and lows, the stress and the general craziness of working in this business, and provide individual quit plans to support your specific needs.

Tina Johnson, who manages the MTPF Wellness Program, points out why Picture Quitting could finally help you quit. “It’s the individual support that really helps. And, we combine that personal counseling with effective medication, which is why our success rates are twice the national average.”

I wish they had this plan years ago; my mom and dad might still be with us to welcome in 2010. So, come on now, today’s the day. Call the Picture Quitting team and get started towards a smoke-free life right now!

(800) 654-WELL (9355)

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Falling Into Health

Monday, December 7th, 2009

This week, Joe welcomes guest blogger Arlene Martel to the site. What a great story!

For a lot of people, a fractured patella and strained ankle and foot would be painful, but not life-threatening. They take some time off from work, get some rehab, and then get back to the office on crutches in a few weeks and life goes on. However, if you’re an actor, like me, an injury that literally knocks you off your feet means months of unemployment and serious strain on your bank account. It pushed me right to the financial edge until I found the Motion Picture & Television Fund.

My orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Robert Klapper, offered two rehab location options. I chose the Saban Center for Health and Wellness on the MPTF Woodland Hills campus even though it was much farther from my home than the other facility. Oh, my, it’s such a welcoming place. The pool’s warm water is a delight, and the cleanliness is astounding.Jeff, my physical therapist, immediately got me moving and feeling like I’d soon be back on my feet. I really looked forward to those three-times-a-week sessions. The result is a healed knee and ankle, weight loss, and more energy than ever.

Even though I’ve “graduated” from water therapy, you’ll still see me at the gym three times a week. I love the atmosphere! The music is lively without being overpowering and no one is rushing you off the machines. The staff and the people working out are friendly and supportive. It’s easy to stay focused on your routine. Plus, being around people who work in all areas of the entertainment industry makes it even more interesting. If you’re ready to get in shape, you really should take a look at the Saban Center. See you there! (more…)

When It’s Time to Move

Thursday, November 19th, 2009

As the Long Term Facility and Hospital close, MPTF’s Community Care Teams are working with the people being relocated to make sure the transition is as smooth as possible. The same doctors, nurses, social workers, volunteers, and others who have been caring for these patients will continue the care if the patients and their families so desire.

These dedicated MPTF personnel who make up the Community Care Teams box up, move, unpack, help settle those who are moving to the facilities we are working within the southern California area. There is never a doubt that we are well involved with the patient.

An unexpected benefit of our expansion into different facilities is the discovery of other entertainment industry veterans who are the new “neightbors” of the folks we’re helping to move in. Our Teams are working to include these newfound friends in the activities we’re bringing to these facilities.

Take a minute to listen to Linda Healy, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, and Sue Schubert, Director of Volunteers and Recreation talk about how the Community Care Teams help make the transition a little bit easier for everyone.

MPTF. Sometimes the “F” stands for “Family”…

To learn more about how we’re staying connected to our patients, please read “Staying Connected” below.

Community Care Teams »

MPTF Campus Activities »

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Staying Connected

Thursday, November 19th, 2009

I’ve been talking all week about the MPTF Community Care Teams and how their holistic approach helps patients live healthier longer. They’re also the folks who are working with the patients moving to other facilities as the MPTF Long Term Care Facility and Hospital are phased out.

In this video, Sue Schubert, Director of Volunteers and Recreation, and Linda Healy, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, talk about how the Community Care Teams stay connected with the patients – and keep the patients connected to the MPTF and all their friends who still live on the Woodland Hills Campus.

Community Care Teams »

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Community Care Teams

Monday, November 16th, 2009

In health care it’s crucial for caregivers to talk to and listen to each other. The folks at the Motion Picture & Television Fund get it.  Nurse practitioners talk to doctors, who listen to social workers, who work with volunteers, and on and on. It’s a total care approach that keeps people healthier longer.

Take a look at the video. Sue Schubert, Director of Volunteers and Recreation, and Linda Healy, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, talk about these “Community Care Teams“. It seems so logical when they describe them. Wonder why everyone isn’t doing it…

Community Care Teams »

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